Ohio Star Theater Unveils Bible-Based Musical Elijah: Prophet of Fire for 2026

Ohio Star Theater is bringing the story of a biblical prophet's showdown with Israel's most powerful rulers to the Sugarcreek stage, announcing "Elijah: Prophet of Fire" as its original 2026 musical production running May 15 through November 5.

The announcement, posted in the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce pressroom, marks the second original Bible-based musical from Ohio Star Theater, with the same creative team returning for the new production. Script writer Joseph Sheridan is joined by Artistic Director Tammie McKenzie, composer Steve Parsons, and lyricist Ellie Zumbach, all of whom worked together on the theater's first original Bible-based production.

The show follows Elijah's journey as he stands against the most wicked rulers of Israel and leads people from all walks of life towards the One True God. Sheridan describes the dramatic possibilities as rooted in the outsized nature of the story's central figures.

"Elijah's story is filled with dramatic, heightened characters and situations that take on an almost larger-than-life bent," Sheridan said. "Whether that's the powerful, puppeteering queen Jezebel, the hopeful successor to Elijah, Elisha, or the rugged prophet himself, there is so much depth to the situations these characters face."

The production is presented on behalf of Dutchman Hospitality Group Inc., the parent organization behind Ohio Star Theater. Sheridan framed the show as part of the theater's broader mission to offer professional-caliber entertainment to audiences in Holmes County.

"We want people to come to our theatre and see something powerful and unique - a professional level production they can't see just anywhere," Sheridan said. "We want to share a Broadway-style musical theatre experience in the heart of Amish country, and for people to leave the theater inspired."

Casting is set to begin in early 2026, with announcements to be posted on the theater's social media page. Tickets are currently on sale at OhioStarTheater.com and by phone at 855-344-7547.